Kilishi

Kilishi

Kilishi (kih-LEE-shee)

Spiced Dried Beef

Prep Time 2 days (including drying)
📈 Difficulty Hard
👥 Servings
8
🔥 Calories 234 kcal

Paper-thin sheets of beef coated in a fiery groundnut and spice paste, sun-dried to a crispy, intensely flavoured jerky.

Nutrition & Info

220 kcal per serving
Protein 28.0g
Carbs 8.0g
Fat 10.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

gluten-free dairy-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ peanuts

Equipment Needed

sharp knife drying rack mixing bowl grill or oven

Presentation Guide

Vessel: woven basket or plate

Garnishes: sliced onion rings

Accompaniments: kunu (millet drink)

Instructions

  1. 1

    Slice beef into very thin, wide sheets (about 2mm thick). This requires a very sharp knife and partially frozen beef.

  2. 2

    Spread slices on a drying rack and sun-dry for 4-6 hours or dehydrate until leathery.

  3. 3

    Mix groundnut paste with all spices, crushed bouillon, salt, and enough water to make a spreadable paste.

  4. 4

    Coat each dried beef slice thoroughly with the spice paste on both sides.

  5. 5

    Sun-dry the coated slices again for 3-4 hours until the paste is set.

  6. 6

    Grill briefly over low heat or toast in the oven at 150°C for 10 minutes until crispy. Store in airtight containers.

💡

Did You Know?

Kilishi is sometimes called "Nigerian biltong" — but Hausa traders were making it centuries before the South African version existed.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • sharp knife
  • drying rack
  • mixing bowl
  • grill or oven

Garnishing

sliced onion rings

Accompaniments

kunu (millet drink)

The Story Behind Kilishi

Kilishi is a Hausa delicacy from northern Nigeria, developed as a preservation method by nomadic cattle herders and traders. The groundnut coating technique is uniquely Hausa and allowed meat to be stored and transported across the Sahel for long journeys.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed snack, travel food, ramadan gift 📜 Origins: Hausa tradition, centuries old

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